In light of the Confederation of Danish Industry's (DI) recently published report on Danish esports and its significance for Danish society, key representatives from the industry, including the Minister of Culture, Jakob Engel-Schmidt, convened at Astralis Nexus on Thursday morning, August 17th.
The gathering focused on the esports analysis, addressing the current status of esports, industry challenges, future prospects, and its contribution to Danish society.
The Confederation of Danish Industry (DI) and Minister of Culture Jakob Engel-Schmidt are actively working to strengthen the Danish esports community.
If done correctly, this effort could significantly positively affect jobs, the economy, and society.
That's why Astralis Nexus hosted 30 representatives from various sectors of the Danish esports scene. They gathered for a presentation by DI and a discussion with the Minister of Culture about the newly released report on Danish esports.
Prepared by DI, the report reveals that the esports industry in Denmark accounts for approximately 3,000 full-time positions and contributes nearly 4.3 billion kroner to the country's GDP annually.
Andreas Espersen, Head of Digitalization Policy at DI, has commented on the report:
- The contribution to society is truly impressive, especially considering esports emerged just ten years ago. The good news is that there is potential for much more.
Culture Minister Jakob Engel-Schmidt, who dedicated an hour of his day to engage with esports stakeholders, emphasized the overlooked potential of Danish esports:
- We have some of the world's most skilled esports athletes and stars, along with major organizations like Astralis and BLAST, who are performing phenomenally on the global stage, he said.
- Some Danes do not believe esports is a real sport, but I disagree. The industry has professional organizations, skilled coaches, a focus on talent development, and players in the world elite. And to be part of that (a part of the world elite, ed.), one must meet a wide range of requirements, just like in handball and football.
- I see a good opportunity for political engagement. And I have held this view for some time. I was personally involved in putting Esport Denmark on the budget last year. Sometimes it's not just about the money but also the political recognition. The report provides an opportunity to do more politically in the coming years.
- And that's precisely why I also participated today to receive sound advice from the industry, concluded the Minister of Culture.
The minister also expressed a keen interest in learning more about Danish esports, future talents, and grassroots development.
This collaboration marks a promising step toward recognizing and cultivating the vast potential within the Danish esports industry.
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